Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary chicken into a culinary masterpiece, where crispy golden skin meets the sweet, caramelized notes of orange and the subtle anise flavor of fennel. This Mediterranean-inspired roasted chicken thigh recipe is not just a meal—it's a sensory journey that will transport you to sun-drenched coastal kitchens with every single bite. Prepare to elevate your home cooking and impress your guests with this incredibly simple yet sophisticated dish that looks and tastes like it was crafted by a professional chef.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 bulb fennel, sliced
- 2 oranges, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Ensure the rack is positioned in the center of the oven for even roasting.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps achieve crispy skin and better browning. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
- Trim the fennel bulb, removing the tough outer layer and fronds. Slice the bulb vertically into thin, even strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Slice oranges into 1/4 inch thick rounds, keeping the peel on for added flavor and visual appeal.
- In a large cast-iron skillet or roasting pan, spread olive oil to coat the bottom evenly. Arrange sliced fennel and orange rounds as a bed for the chicken.
- Place chicken thighs skin-side up on top of the fennel and orange mixture. The skin should be exposed for proper crisping.
- Drizzle additional olive oil over the chicken and vegetables. Sprinkle additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until chicken skin is golden brown and crisp, and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
- Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving. The herbs will add a fragrant, herbal note to the dish.
- Serve directly from the skillet, allowing the roasted fennel and caramelized orange slices to accompany the chicken.
Tips
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning to ensure the most crispy, golden-brown skin possible.
- Use a cast-iron skillet if available, as it provides even heat distribution and creates a beautiful caramelization.
- Don't rush the resting period after cooking—those 5-10 minutes are crucial for keeping the meat juicy and tender.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fennel seeds along with the fresh thyme for a more intense aromatic experience.
- Choose bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and moisture retention.
- Use fresh, high-quality oranges for the best caramelization and flavor infusion.
- If you prefer less citrus intensity, you can remove the orange peel before slicing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 140mg
